(Indian Head, Maryland) – On Wednesday, January 08, 2025, at approximately 1424 hours, Troopers from Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack along with Charles County Sheriff Deputies responded to Maryland Route 344 in the area of Maryland Route 224 for a report of a serious motor vehicle collision. Due to the circumstances, the Maryland State Police CRASH Team responded to assume the investigation. 

A preliminary investigation conducted by Troopers from the MSP La Plata Barrack and the MSP CRASH Team indicates a Dodge Durango operated by Gary McPhatter (64 yoa) of Indian Head, MD, was traveling south on Maryland Route 344 south of Maryland Route 224. For unknown reasons, the Dodge Durango traveled off the roadway and collided head-on with a tree. 

Charles County Sheriff Deputies and Emergency Medical Services performed life saving measures on Mr. McPhatter, however he was ultimately pronounced deceased on the scene. Anyone who may have witnessed this crash is asked to contact Sergeant J. Zimmerman of the MSP CRASH Team at (301) 392-1231 or can email a statement to justin.zimmerman@maryland.gov. The investigation is continuing. (25-MSP-000656)